The future of a popular fringe theatre in Earl’s Court is on the line once again amid plans to build homes above it.

The critically acclaimed Finborough Theatre say the proposals to convert the one flat above it into three could lead to the closure of the popular venue in Finborough Road.

Artistic director Neil McPherson fears building work required to convert the space into homes will disrupt performances, and leave it vulnerable to noise abatement orders in the future which could ultimately lead to its closure.

An application to build the apartments above the 36-year-old theatre’s auditorium was refused by Kensington and Chelsea planners last year, but is now going through the appeal process.

As a result, Mr McPherson is issuing a call to arms and urging patrons and theatre-goers around the country to register their objections to the appeal before the May 19 deadline.

Neil McPherson is the artist director at the Finborough Theatre and fears for its very existence if the flats above it are built

He said the theatre received support from all over the world last year, and is hoping for more of the same now: “The same application is now up for appeal, and we would greatly appreciate your support in objecting to the Appeal. Objections from across the UK and internationally are especially useful.”

'Theatres have had to close or restrict operations'

Mr McPherson says the 50-seat theatre’s performance schedule would be severely disrupted if construction went ahead, and that noise and vibration disturbance would threaten shows.

And he fears noise generated by the theatre could lead to residents seeking noise abatement orders. He says: “This would threaten the future of the theatre.

"There are many examples where theatres have had to close or restrict their operations to overcome such problems.”

If you would like to object can click here and quote PINS’ Ref: App/K5600/W/16/3145538.